Griffith Hughes’ The Natural History of Barbados, first published in 1750, stands as a monumental work in the annals of botanical and colonial studies. Written during Hughes’ tenure as rector of St. Lucy’s Parish in Barbados, this comprehensive volume delves into the island’s flora, fauna, and natural environment. Hughes, a Welsh clergyman and naturalist, meticulously cataloged the diverse plant species of Barbados, offering detailed descriptions of their physical characteristics, uses, and medicinal properties. His observations were grounded in personal experience and insights from local informants, reflecting a deep engagement with the island’s natural world.

The book is organized into twelve books, with eight dedicated to the island’s trees, shrubs, and plants. These are classified based on their physical attributes, such as nut-bearing (Nuciferous), fruit-bearing (Pomiferous), and plum-like fruit-bearing (Pruniferous) plants. Each plant is described in terms of its appearance, edibility, and practical applications, both commercially and medicinally. Notably, Hughes provides one of the earliest descriptions of the grapefruit, referring to it as the “Forbidden Fruit,” and is credited with coining the term “yellow fever,” although the association with mosquitoes was established much later.

Illustrating Hughes’ text are 30 engraved plates, many of which are attributed to the renowned botanical artist Georg Dionysius Ehret. These plates are not mere decorations but serve as vital components of the work, enhancing the reader’s understanding of the described species. The inclusion of a folding map of Barbados by Thomas Jefferys further enriches the book, offering a geographical context to the natural observations.

Beyond its botanical content, Hughes’ work reflects the intellectual currents of the 18th century, intertwining scientific inquiry with religious and cultural perspectives. His references to sacred texts in the descriptions of flora and fauna illustrate the era’s tendency to view nature through a theological lens. The book’s dedication to patrons and subscribers, including notable figures like the Prince of Wales and the Archbishop of Canterbury, underscores its significance and the esteem in which it was held.

The Natural History of Barbados is more than a scientific treatise; it is a window into the Enlightenment era’s approach to understanding the natural world. Hughes’ meticulous observations and the book’s rich illustrations provide invaluable insights into the biodiversity of 18th-century Barbados, making it a seminal work in the field of natural history.